Many of you have no doubt heard of the tragedy that has happened to the Chapman family.  http://www.stevencurtischapman.com   

They feel so much like old friends though they don’t even know us.  I feel funny to write, but feel compelled to do so.  His music has been a part of our family since we were young newlywed youth workers and we discovered his music at a youth event at Worlds of Fun in KC, MO.  Memories of car rides with little ones singing along to his CDs (or way back…cassette tapes!) often with “made up” words come to mind.  Now, with 6 children of our own, his songs seem to relate even more to our lives and we realize that while Steven is the singer/songwriter, his ministry really involves his whole family giving thier lives as they minister for Jesus together.  I'm SO thankul for his ministry to us!

There are no words to adequately express the agony I know they must feel.  I know our God is holding them in His strong arms binding their broken hearts and giving them the comfort, grace and peace to uphold them during this time.  Grieving, but not as the world does, as one with a sure hope of reunion in heaven.  I pray that the Lord grants them the faith to trust Him even when we often don’t understand the “why” of our circumstances this side of heaven, may He grant them the faith to know beyond a shadow of a doubt that He is still good and still in control and still loves them with an everlasting love.  I pray that His Word brings healing and comfort to them as He gives them the strength to faithfully display His splendor.

Psalm 73:26

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Isaiah 61:1-3 

 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
       because the LORD has anointed me
       to preach good news to the poor.
       He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
       to proclaim freedom for the captives
       and release from darkness for the prisoners,

 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor
       and the day of vengeance of our God,
       to comfort all who mourn,

 and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
       to bestow on them a crown of beauty
       instead of ashes,
       the oil of gladness
       instead of mourning,
       and a garment of praise
       instead of a spirit of despair.
       They will be called oaks of righteousness,
       a planting of the LORD
       for the display of his splendor.

Please join me in praying for this dear family!!